Beth Bares

Beth Bares is a 49-year-old married mother with two grown children. She has lived in Baton Rouge, Louisiana all of her life. Never aspiring to be a writer, she was shocked to discover the exciting new world of writing. During the aftermath of a hurricane, with no electricity and nothing new to read, she began handwriting her first novel. And with the help of It soon turned into a trilogy.

Welcome, Beth.

Describe your writing in three words.

Spontaneous, adventurous, witty

How many books have you written?

I’ve written 3 books – a Paranormal Series, titled The Dreams Trilogy.  I’m currently half way finished with my fourth book, a stand alone, fun chick-lit.  I’m having quite a bit of fun with it.  Also, I’m working on a contemporary romance which is a stand alone.

That's interesting, indeed. I've written four mysteries and just finished my first women's fiction, Slightly Cracked. I enjoyed the fun and change very much too.

Give a short synop of your most recently published book.

Elizabeth Reynolds, best-selling author of paranormal romance, has lived her life-long fantasy of magic powers and immortals through her books, stories based on actual dreams of another world, always wishing the fantasy were reality.

However, when her best friend and the love of her life both confess to having those special gifts, Elizabeth is totally freaked. She doesn’t know whether to be fearful, jealous, or thrilled over the fact her dream world really does exist.

As her dreams evolve into daytime visions, which play out in realty, fear takes precedent over all other emotions. Admitting the visions, to those close to her, confirms their suspicion that Elizabeth carries the Seventh Power Mark, one of the most powerful in the immortal world. As her powers began to develop and manifest, the dangers of the immortal world become more than she bargained for. Now, her life depends on the most powerful men in the immortal world, the LeRenoir Council. However, Elizabeth’s powers sense that even the council may harbor evil.

She can embrace this new world and the man she loves, facing whatever danger it may involve and the changes it will require, or she can return to her old life.

Elizabeth knows her heart’s desire and it doesn't include taking direction from a bunch of over protective, stuffy, egotistical immortals.

How much of yourself is hidden in the characters in the book? 

I’ve had more than a few people tell me they recognize a little of me in several of my characters, and they are right.  It amazed me how my personality came through as each of my characters developed. 

True for most writers, I suspect. 

Do your characters take on a life of their own? If so, which is your favorite?

Most definitely!  I know this is going to sound strange, but on many occasions I felt they should take this path or that path.  But they refused to budge until I let them have their way.

Are they available in print and digital formats?  

The Dreams Trilogy is available in print and digital through my website (www.bethbares.com) and Amazon.com. 

What challenges did you face while writing this book?

The biggest challenge was the ending for each book.  Making the decision on where to give the characters a rest was hard.  I have two characters that always want the last word..haha  Also, deciding whether a trilogy was a good idea.  Should there be more?  It’s a tough decision, especially when there is still a story there.  Like I mentioned earlier, a couple of stubborn characters can go on and on.  

What do you think is the greatest lesson you’ve learned about writing so far? What advice can you give other writers? 

I’m a little embarrassed to say, but the biggest lesson I’ve learned is basic grammar.

It didn’t help the fact that I hated English in school and did what I needed to do in order to pass.  I knew from the beginning, an editor would need to get involved.  I am so blessed and grateful for the relationship my editor and I have.  We definitely click and I value her advice, suggestions and her awesome talent and skills. 

As far as advice for other writers…this is going to sound cliché, but I have to say, being true to who you are.  Don’t write like your favorite author or a favorite book.  Our voices are our own.  I really feel if you have a story to tell, your thoughts will be able to write that manuscript better than anyone.  And when it comes to publishing, read, read, and read some more.  Find the publisher that fits your needs, but most of all your writing needs to fit with a publisher.  Being offered a contract is a wonderful feeling, but don’t let the excitement get in the way of making sure it’s a perfect fit.

Where do you store ideas for later use: in your head, in a notebook, or on a spreadsheet?

Mostly in my head, but I’m constantly going through post-it-notes which I have in my purse!  It could be anything from locations, personalities, quotes, experiences, etc.  Then as often as I can, which is about once every week, I transfer my posties to a notebook until I’m ready to use them.  

We all know how important promoting our work has become. How do you get the word out both off and online?

My avenue for marketing is people like you, Susan.  As writers we are so blessed to have individuals like you who are willing to put our name and books out there.  Booktown is a wonderful website.  I was thrilled when a good friend of mine, Laura Burks, author of Altered, recommended I join.  I’ve advertised my book covers on Booktown for a very reasonable price that fits a debut author’s budget.  The response from advertising on Booktown has been great.

Needless to say, the marketing paths are pretty much endless.  At first, I was in overload until I finally managed to get on a schedule.  For me, I had to decide how much time and money I was going to spend on promotions.  I have certain days during the month that are dedicated to checking e-mails, reading review blogs, posting to Facebook and my personal website (www.bethbares.com)   Once a month, I hold interviews and or a contest. 

Researching and contacting conferences, workshops and independent bookstores that recognize my genre are a must. When I get a response, bookmarks, business cards and books for giveaways are mailed.  This is an awesome promotion outlet.  I have not been turned down yet.  It’s free for them, and your name and titles are in hands you would never have come face to face with. 

One last thing…Free books to readers are essential.  I know this can get expensive for an author, but I promise, the joy you get from giving is priceless.   

Can you tell us your writing goals/projects for the rest of this year or beyond? 

I’m very excited with 2012 thus far.  My goal was to have The Dreams Trilogy published by the end of this year.  Book 1, Dreams of Reality, released on March 9^th, book 2, Reality of Life, released June 24^th.  The last book, Life of Forever, will be available on October 1^st. 

My goal for January thru June, 2013 is publication of the two manuscripts I’m currently writing.  I feel it’s a good time line for me.  

I do have other ideas for additional books, but will get to those soon enough.  I’m nowhere near closing my notebook or tossing my post-it-notes.  As long as I have one fan, I’ll continue to put my voice into words. 

Where can folks learn more about your books and events? 

I post events and upcoming news for my books on Booktown, of course. 

That's www.booktown.com for those who might not be familiar with that site.

Also, my author page at Amazon.com  

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_c_0_10?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=beth+bares&sprefix=beth+bares%2Caps%2C284

My website (www.bethbares.com).  I have quite a bit of information about my books, along with favorite websites and authors on my website.  You can find me on Facebook too.  Send me a friend request.

Beth, it has been a pleasure to learn more about you. I'll see you around Booktown and other places.